‘Negotiations ongoing’: Dutch journo drops intriguing bombshell that United are ‘working on’ deal for Barca ace

Manchester United chiefs remain hot in pursuit of a midfield acquisition to add to Erik ten Hag’s ranks before deadline day.

Numerous names have been mooted as targets for INEOS, particularly the likes of Sander Berge, Manuel Ugarte and Youssouf Fofana, although the latter is said to be closing in on a move to AC Milan.

Nonetheless, another player who’s been mentioned tentatively among the mix is Frenkie de Jong, with United seemingly expecting they can get a deal over the line second time lucky.

The reports come two years on from the tedious transfer saga that took place in Erik ten Hag’s maiden window; he immediately pursued his ex-Ajax protegee, and the board even saw a bid accepted by Barcelona, but it never came to fruition as the Dutch international was unwilling to bid farewell to the Camp Nou.

Indeed, personal terms could never be agreed with De Jong, who, in fairness, had made it clear from the get-go that he had no intention of leaving the Blaugrana.

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The latest speculation regarding United’s De Jong pursuit

Now, United are testing the waters to see if his commitment remains as strong as it was back then; Dutch journalist Jack van Gelder has confirmed that the Reds have revived their interest in hopes of finally welcoming the dynamic midfielder to Old Trafford.

Van Gelder revealed on the television programme De Oranjezomer: “There is indeed great interest in Frenkie from Manchester United. Negotiations are ongoing, I understand. In any case, they are working on it.”